French interior minister admits police 'lost control' of protests

In Limoges, the full extent of the damage comes to light after its historic town hall was set ablaze in some of the worst public order in modern French history. In Paris, graffiti still covers some shop fronts as the cleanup and rebuild continue. And in Bordeaux, this jeweler prepares to reopen her store. At first, I was shocked at my staff because I know they were very scared and traumatized by this situation. After that, I'd say I felt disgust. Business owners across the country are waiting to see what action follows. One response came Monday when France's interior minister offered to resign after admitting police lost control of protests in some cities. I offered my resignation to the president because I am responsible for everything that's happened. I've been a civil servant. I have a sense of the public interest. And given the damage that's been done, it was only right that I should offer to resign. But President Emmanuel Macron refused. The Élysée says he instead ordered the minister to take all necessary steps to ensure transparency over the failures in planning and intelligence that led to the violence. The justice minister told French media that security services were well equipped to handle terrorists and organized crime but less prepared for groups of rioters. Tonight we all feel anger and shame. The president addressed the nation's Sunday night saying those involved would face justice. Before October 17, recent student-led protests had already become a political sticking point. Figures on the far right accused the left of fuelling insurrection, which France's left denied, supporting the public's right to protest. Marine Le Pen, the far-right presidential candidate, said late Sunday that political forces had exploited widespread anger over the cost of living. With an election six months away, the pressure on the government is only growing.